How to Step into Your Role as a New Father

At Covenant Health, our providers see every day how much a father’s presence shapes a family’s health and well-being.  

“Being a dad starts long before the baby arrives,” explains Wilfredo Herrera, MD, OB-GYN with Covenant Health’s Fort Sanders Women’s Specialists. “Your presence matters more than you think.” 

That’s why we want to share simple ways for dads to stay active and involved in their child’s life from the beginning. 

Active Support Makes a Difference 

Fathers who take an active role during pregnancy can improve outcomes for both the mother and baby. When partners are involved, women are more likely to make healthy choices and feel supported throughout pregnancy.  

Dr. Herrera explains it simply: “Don’t just cheer from the sidelines. Be involved. Be hands-on. Be present.” 

That presence can look like: 

• Joining prenatal visits 
• Helping prepare the home 
• Cooking meals or grocery shopping 
• Asking your partner what she needs and following through 

These everyday actions build a strong foundation for parenting and strengthen early family bonds.   

Bonding With Your Baby 

As a non-carrying parent, bonding with your baby may feel challenging at first. Many new dads feel unsure of their role early on when their partner chooses to breastfeed.  

Dr. Herrera sees this often. “It’s normal for dads to feel left out at first,” he says. “But there are so many ways to bond with your baby that don’t involve feeding.” 

Fathers can build strong connections by: 

• Holding the baby skin‑to‑skin 
• Burping after feedings 
• Changing diapers 
• Rocking the baby to sleep 
• Talking, singing and reading aloud 

These small moments help fathers feel confident and help babies feel secure. 

Supporting Your Partner’s Emotional Health  

The weeks after birth can be overwhelming for both parents. According to research published by the National Library of Medicine, women who feel supported by their partners are less likely to experience postpartum depression and anxiety.  

Dr. Herrera encourages fathers to stay tuned in: “Check in with your partner. Ask how she’s doing and what she needs. Your support can make a real difference.” 

Fathers can help by: 

• Watching for signs of postpartum depression 
• Sharing household responsibilities 
• Encouraging rest and recovery 
• Listening and supporting emotionally as well as physically 

During routine follow up care, Covenant Health providers screen new mothers for postpartum depression and connect families with the right resources. 

Your Mental Health Matters Too 

Fathers should also pay attention to their own well-being. Stress, lack of sleep and life changes can take a toll. Paternal depression is more common than many people realize, and up to 10% of fathers experience it.   

“Dads need support too,” Dr. Herrera says. “Taking care of yourself helps you take care of your family.” 

Most fathers rely heavily on their partners for emotional support, but during the newborn period, couples often have less time together. That’s why outside support matters. Friends, family, faith communities and online or in‑person dad groups can make a big difference. 

“You don’t have to figure this out alone,” Dr. Herrera explains. “Community makes fatherhood easier.” 

If you notice changes in your mood, energy or motivation, seeking help is important.  Covenant Health offers compassionate, confidential care for men’s mental health. 

Learning As You Go  

Families are built in many ways: adoption, stepparenting, IVF, fostering or other paths. Dr. Herrera honors every journey. “What makes someone a father isn’t biology. It’s commitment, love and showing up,” he adds. 

Every new father, no matter how prepared, faces moments of doubt. Many men worry they aren’t doing enough or don’t know enough. Dr. Herrera reassures them: “No dad starts out knowing everything. You learn by doing. You grow as your baby grows.” 

Learning the basics early helps. Learn: 

• How to recognize signs of infant illness 
• Safe sleep practices 
• Feeding and sleep patterns 
• When to call the pediatrician 
• How to play and interact in age-appropriate ways

Covenant Health’s care teams include family medicine providers who see patients from birth through all stages of life. They help guide parents through each stage of their child’s development. They can help you learn the basics, answer questions and support your family’s health as you grow together.  

To get connected, you can schedule a visit with a family medicine provider at a location that’s convenient for you. Or learn more about women’s and family health services offered at Covenant Health.